STEEL DYNAMICS
Apprenticeships
LAUNCH YOUR FUTURE WITH SDI
Are you a high school senior looking to jumpstart your career, or an adult already in the workforce ready for a new chapter? The Steel Dynamics Apprenticeship Program offers a chance to invest in your future with world-class compensation, benefits, and long-term opportunities for growth and advancement.
APPRENTICESHIP STRUCTURE
As an apprentice, you will enter either a mechanical or electrical training track designed to prepare you for a long-term career in industrial maintenance. You will be hired as a full-time employee from day one and receive full-time employee benefits while developing highly in-demand maintenance skills.
Throughout the two-year program, you will split your time between on-the-job training and classroom instruction while working toward an associate’s degree. Apprentices are compensated for classroom time and hands-on training, allowing you to earn while you learn. Tuition and fees are paid for by Steel Dynamics. A key benefit of the program is the cohort-based model. Apprentices attend classes together as a group, building strong peer connections and supporting one another throughout the program.
The mechanical apprenticeship curriculum includes mechanical drives, fluid power, introductory industrial electricity, welding, and machine maintenance. The electrical apprenticeship focuses on advanced industrial electricity, motors and motor controls, fluid power, industrial wiring, electrical circuits, and automation controls.
MECHANICAL MAINTENANCE
Millwrights and Mill Technicians are the people who keep the machines in a steel mill running safely and smoothly. They install, maintain, and repair large pieces of equipment such as motors, pumps, conveyors, cranes, and hydraulic systems that are used to move and shape steel. When something breaks or is not working correctly, they troubleshoot the problem, replace worn parts, and make adjustments so production can continue without long delays. They also read blueprints and diagrams, use tools like welders and precision measuring instruments, and work closely with operators and engineers to keep the mill operating safely and efficiently. In simple terms, Millwrights and Mill Technicians are the skilled problem solvers who make sure the equipment in the steel mill works the way it should.
ELECTRICAL MAINTENANCE
Electricians and Electrical Technicians are the people who keep the electrical systems in a steel mill running safely and reliably. They install, maintain, and repair equipment such as motors, drives, PLC’s, HMI’s, transformers, sensors, and power distribution systems that control and support the steelmaking process. When something is not working correctly, they troubleshoot electrical issues, analyze faults, and make repairs or adjustments to minimize downtime and keep production moving. They work with both low and high voltage systems, read electrical schematics, and use diagnostic tools to identify problems quickly and accurately. They also support new equipment installations, ensure systems are operating safely, and collaborate closely with operators, engineers, and maintenance teams. In simple terms, Electricians and Electrical Technicians are the skilled problem solvers who keep the mill powered, automated, and running efficiently.
WHY CHOOSE THE STEEL DYNAMICS APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM?
The Steel Dynamics Apprenticeship Program is a great choice for students who want to build a stable and rewarding career in advanced manufacturing. Industrial maintenance is a highly sought-after skill set, and companies across the country are looking for people with these technical abilities. At Steel Dynamics, many employees spend their entire careers with the company. As the first generation of the Steel Dynamics workforce begins to retire, there is a growing need to train the next generation and pass on valuable knowledge and experience.
Another advantage of the apprenticeship model is the strong support system. Students complete many of their classes together, building relationships, and helping one another succeed. The program is structured so that your school and employer regularly communicate about your progress, which is very different from a traditional college experience, where students often have to balance work and school on their own and manage communication between both sides themselves.
Apply to be part of this life-changing program today!
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
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BENEFITS IN THE APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM
Steel Dynamics puts employees first with a robust benefits package. We’re also committed to the health and well-being of our team, urging employees to focus on wellness. When it comes to your health, we encourage everyone to take charge, take action, take care, and be safe!
These are just some of the ways we show our appreciation and ongoing commitment to our employees.
- Medical, Dental and Prescription Insurance
- Vision and Hearing Coverage
- Flexible Spending Accounts
- Health Savings Accounts
- Castlight Health Navigation Platform
- Well-Being Program
- Life/AD and D Coverage
- Disability Coverage
- Profit Sharing and Retirement Savings
- Stock Benefits
- Educational Assistance
- Dependent Child Scholarships
- Paid Vacations and Holidays
Benefits may vary by division.
ADVANCEMENT OPPORTUNITIES
Upon successful completion of the program, electrical apprentices typically transition into Electrical Technician roles and may advance into Electrician positions as they gain experience and demonstrate proficiency. Mechanical apprentices also move into Mill Technician roles, with the opportunity to promote into Millwright positions.
APPLICATION PROCESS
Interested applicants can apply beginning at 18 years old. Applicants selected for screening will complete an assessment and an in-person interview. Interested applicants can apply on the Steel Dynamics Careers page. Program subject to availability at each Steel Dynamics facility.
PARTICIPATING LOCATIONS
- Butler, IN
- Fort Wayne, IN
- Columbia City, IN
- New Haven, IN
- Pittsboro, IN
- Roanoke, VA
- Columbus, MS
- Sinton, TX